When you need a dental crown, you can choose between same-day and traditional multi-visit crowns. This decision can significantly impact your schedule, comfort, and overall experience. The difference comes down to technology, time, and convenience, though both approaches deliver excellent results for protecting and strengthening damaged teeth.
At Floss & Co., we understand how busy life can get, so we offer same-day crowns using advanced digital scanning technology. Our approach eliminates the need for multiple visits while ensuring you receive a high-quality, custom-fitted crown in just one appointment. With our commitment to patient comfort and state-of-the-art dental technology, you can rest assured that your oral health is in the right hands.
How Do Same-Day Crowns Work?
Same-day crowns are a technological leap forward in restorative dentistry. The process begins with digital scanning rather than traditional impressions, meaning no more uncomfortable, goopy materials in your mouth. We capture precise digital images of your tooth and surrounding area, which our computer system uses to design your custom crown.
Once the design is complete, our in-office milling machine crafts your crown from a solid block of ceramic material. This entire process typically takes about two hours, allowing you to walk out with your permanent crown the same day. The digital precision ensures an excellent fit, and the ceramic material matches your natural tooth color perfectly.
Traditional Multi-Visit Crown Process
Traditional crowns follow a time-tested approach that spans multiple appointments at dental practices that use this method. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and takes physical impressions using dental putty. These impressions go to an off-site laboratory where skilled technicians handcraft the crown over the course of several days or weeks.
A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while you wait for the permanent restoration. Once the custom crown returns from the lab, you’ll return for a second appointment, where the dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent one in place. This method has served patients well for decades and continues to yield excellent results despite its longer timeline.
Comparing the Benefits of Same-Day and Traditional Crowns
The most obvious advantage of same-day crowns is convenience. You avoid the hassle of scheduling multiple appointments, taking additional time off work, or dealing with temporary crowns. Same-day crowns also eliminate the risk of temporary crown complications, such as sensitivity or the crown coming loose.
Traditional crowns also offer certain advantages. Laboratory technicians have more time to perfect every detail, and some patients prefer this hands-on approach. Conventional methods also work well for complex cases that require specialized techniques or materials not readily available for same-day production.
Both approaches use high-quality materials and precise techniques to ensure your crown functions properly and looks natural. The choice often comes down to personal preference, scheduling needs, and specific case requirements.
Cost and Insurance Considerations for Dental Crowns
Insurance typically covers both same-day and traditional crowns at similar rates since both serve the same restorative function. The cost difference between the two approaches is usually minimal, making convenience the primary deciding factor for most patients.
Many patients find that same-day crowns actually save money in the long run by eliminating the need for multiple appointments, reducing travel costs, and minimizing time away from work. We accept all major dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit and LendingClub financing.
How to Choose Between Same-Day and Multi-Visit Crowns
Whether you’re one of the 90% of U.S. adults who have a cavity, have suffered an injury, or need a bridge, every dental patient is different and requires personalized care. Therefore, when choosing between same-day and multi-visit crowns, considering the following factors can help you make the best decision for your needs and lifestyle:
- Schedule constraints and availability for multiple appointments
- Comfort level with temporary crowns and potential complications
- Specific tooth location and restoration complexity requirements
- Personal preference for newer technology versus traditional methods
- Timeline requirements for completing your treatment
By carefully considering these factors and discussing your priorities with our caring team, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and ensures excellent long-term results.
Get High-Quality Crown Treatment at Floss & Co.
Whether you choose same-day convenience or traditional craftsmanship, we’re committed to providing exceptional crown treatment in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Our team combines advanced technology with personalized care to ensure you receive the best possible outcome for your specific needs. We take pride in creating a positive experience for patients of all ages and backgrounds, making dental care accessible and comfortable for everyone in our community.
From digital scans that eliminate messy impressions to precision milling technology, we invest in the latest equipment to give you more options and better results. Our comprehensive approach to restorative dentistry means we can address not just your immediate crown needs but also help you maintain optimal oral health for years to come. Contact us today at (773) 586-5522 or fill out our contact form to schedule your crown consultation and discover which option works best for your smile.